5 Foods Every Senior Diet Should Have

By Ilse du Bernard, 8:00 am on January 15, 2015

Choosing nutrient-dense foods is vital to maintaining a healthy senior diet. Often, older adults experience a decrease in appetite, so it is essential that the foods in their daily diet are good sources of essential vitamins and minerals.

At Home Care Assistance of North Houston we emphasize the importance of a healthy diet for our senior clients. In fact, nutritious and well-balanced meals are a key component in our revolutionary Balanced Care Method™ and we wanted to share the following – our five top picks for nutritious (and delicious) foods that all senior diets should have:

Dairy Products – Osteoporosis and brittle bones are major concerns among the elderly population. Most commercially packaged dairy items such as milk, cheese and yogurt have been fortified with both vitamin D and calcium, which work together to support healthy bone regeneration.

Eggs – Packed vitamins A, D, B12 and protein, eggs are a nutritious and economical way to add vital nutrients to a senior’s diet. They can be prepared in a variety of ways and easily added to other dishes such as casseroles for an added health benefit.

Whole Grains – Prepared whole grain products such as bread and oatmeal are an excellent source of B-vitamins. Also, they provide plenty of fiber, which is important in maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing constipation.

Dark, Green Leafy Vegetables – In addition to being a great source of fiber, dark greens are packed with nutrients such as vitamins K, C, A and folic acid. They are also a good source of iron and calcium and can be eaten in salads, on sandwiches, and added to pasta dishes and omelets. The leafy greens that pack the highest vitamin-punch are:

Broccoli

Collard greens

Arugula

Kale

Spinach

Romaine

Nuts – Recent studies have shown that people who eat an average of one ounce of nuts a day reduce their risk of heart disease, high cholesterol and type II diabetes. Nuts provide a wide variety of nutrients that include niacin, vitamin E, antioxidants, and many essential minerals. They are also a source of good fats that work to combat cholesterol.

Interested in learning more about senior nutrition? Reach out to a friendly Care Manager today and find out how our professional and highly trained North Houston caregivers are helping seniors enjoy happier, healthier lives in the comfort of home. Call 832-412-1345 and schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.